Ottawa, Ontario - 6 July 2014
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark the first anniversary of the tragedy in Lac-Mégantic:
“The events of July 6, 2013, in Lac-Mégantic touched all Canadians deeply and no passage of time can erase from our consciousness the lives lost, the injured and the families torn apart by this tragedy. We must not forget what this disaster has meant for the economy and infrastructure of this beautiful city, not to mention the severe impact it has had on the local environment.
“In the face of such a daunting challenge, it was essential for all levels of government to cooperate as closely as possible to assist the victims, the community and the local economy. One year later we can say that, while much remains to be done, our collective efforts are beginning to produce the desired results.
“Our Government will not forget this disaster. Indeed, its memory is driving our myriad efforts to support the people of Lac-Mégantic, who are working so valiantly to rebuild their city and restore its joie de vivre. Having witnessed this first-hand during my visits, I owe these people my greatest admiration. On this sombre anniversary, let us pay tribute to their resilience, determination and extraordinary strength of character.
“Once again, rest assured the Government of Canada will continue to stand by you. We will continue to take concrete action and will keep you in our thoughts.”
For information on the Canada’s support for Lac-Mégantic, visit http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/mediaroom/infosheets-menu-7531.html.
